In Kenya, the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, especially the shortage of rainfall and prolonged droughts. People in Peril has been working in Kenya for many years, primarily supporting agriculture and small businesses. One of our key activities is building greenhouses, which help families secure nutritious food and improve their livelihoods.
Greenhouses as an Opportunity for Women from Marginalized Groups
This project was developed in collaboration with Sote HUB, a business incubator dedicated to educating young people from rural Kenya and supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises. These businesses, often marginalized, face limited opportunities for development. Sote HUB focuses on areas such as agriculture, digitization, and innovative solutions for climate and environmental challenges.
The Kilifi region, on Kenya’s coast, is home to over 1.4 million people, with 70% living in rural areas and relying heavily on farming. However, low rainfall, declining soil fertility, and poor market access reduce agricultural productivity. Women constitute over 60% of the farming workforce, but only a small percentage own land. They also face limited access to credit and advisory services, resulting in low crop yields. That’s why we have created opportunities for women from marginalized groups to secure their livelihoods, develop entrepreneurial skills, and strengthen their societal standing.
Support for 60 Households
A total of 60 households—affecting approximately 300 people—participated in this initiative. Each group of 20 women received a greenhouse for growing vegetables. During training sessions, they learned not only about cultivation but also about financial management, crop insurance, and connecting with buyers. The women were responsible for choosing suitable locations, developing farming plans, securing water sources, implementing safety measures, and managing savings through responsible financing. This process fostered teamwork, social responsibility, and effective management—skills that will benefit them long-term.
Greenhouses, drip irrigation kits, and water tanks were installed in towns like Tezo, Msabaha, and Malindi. The greenhouses are made of special mesh shade cloths that protect crops from insects and monkeys. The women grow tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, spinach, carrots, and cabbage, enabling year-round production despite irregular rainfall and droughts.
Our colleague, Janko, who personally visited the farming groups, shared his impressions:
"The rainy season has shortened from four months to just two, and heavy storms now turn into insufficient showers, according to some participants. I visited three women’s farming communities. I saw lots of natural beauty and met very kind-hearted people. One community is near several schools, and seeing over 2,000 children in colorful uniforms makes me think that our project is helping some of them go to school instead of working."
Women’s Words of Gratitude
The women involved in the project are deeply grateful for the greenhouses—they give them hope and a path to a better future:
Maureen Ibrahim Ngala
"I sincerely thank you for this project. It has had a truly positive impact on our lives. The greenhouses allow us to grow various crops throughout the year, providing a stable income for our families."
Mariam Mwagandi Kaza
"Before, we struggled with unpredictable weather and limited resources. Now, thanks to the greenhouse, we can grow vegetables all year. This not only increases our income but also gives us a sense of security—knowing we can rely on our crops. We are extremely grateful and thank People in Peril and Sote HUB."
Naomi Karisa
"I am proud to be part of this project. The greenhouse is like a ray of hope. It helps me provide for my family, grow food, and pay my children’s school fees. Your support helps us build a better future—strengthening our community and opening new opportunities."
Purity Bendera
"This project is a game changer for me and my community. Thanks to it, we can provide nutritious food for our families, pay for our children’s education, and build resilience. With each harvest, we see the fruits of our labor and the growth of hope and opportunity. I am grateful to People in Peril for your generosity and support. Your faith in us and commitment to strengthening communities like ours is truly inspiring."
Merci Khabibi Thoya
"Thanks to the greenhouse, we can grow more food to feed our families. We no longer worry about hunger. We can also sell some vegetables and earn extra money to pay for school and other expenses. Thank you, People in Peril, for helping us improve our lives and shape a better future."
Thanks to donors who have chosen Real Gifts from the Livelihood category, we can build greenhouses in Kenya and support women and families.
Thank you for your support!
